Incretins - a New Treatment Modality for Diabetes

by Dr. Richard Berkson

Can you imagine a drug that would stimulate the pancreas to release insulin and reduce the appetite to help weight loss at the same time? The incretin effect refers to hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) released from the gastrointestinal tract as a response to food that do just that. Byetta is an injectable drug available since 6/05 that is GLP-1. And further research is working on ways to extend the effect of natural incretins which have decreased effectiveness in Type 2 diabetes.

There are many old and new treatments for diabetes that make the outlook for people with diabetes better than ever. if you have questions about incretins, call our office or come in for a visit.

A Note About Glucose Levels

By Joanne Feldman, Registered Dietician and Certified Diabetes Educator

You take care to exercise regularly and eat well most of the time but you notice that your glucose is still not where you want it to be. Did you know that taking care of your teeth and gums can also help with blood glucose control? Inflammation in the gum tissues increases resistance to insulin and has been shown to make good blood glucose just out of reach. Gingivitis (inflammation in the gums) can happen when glucose levels are high in the blood and is present in saliva between your teeth. This is a good environment for bacteria to grow. Plaque is the bacteria which creates a film on your teeth. Limiting plaque will make for healthier gums, less inflammation, better glucose levels and A1C.So what can you do besides having your teeth cleaned professionally every six months?Brush your teeth and gums twice a day, floss between teeth daily. Rinsing your mouth with a weak concentration of bleach can also help. Bleach kills many bacteria that live in your mouth. Just mix about 1 drop of bleach in an ounce or two of water. Do this twice per week and this helps to keep the tissues in your mouth stay healthy. Remember, you have what it takes to meet your glucose target levels!